Lutheran Family and Children's Services (LFCS), one of Missouri's longest-serving social service agencies, is calling attention to the urgent mental health crisis among youth following a new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics. The report recommends that pediatricians screen all children and teens annually for mental and behavioral health issues, highlighting a national need that LFCS has seen firsthand in Missouri.

Missouri faces particularly urgent challenges. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 19, and the state’s suicide rate is 48% higher than the national average. This alarming data reinforces the importance of proactive mental health support in communities across the state.

“Screening is the first step, but it’s only effective if young people have access to care,” said Lindsay Jeffries, Director of Behavioral Health at LFCS. “It’s crucial that children and teens have a place where they can be heard and connected with the right support to address their mental health needs.”

LFCS is uniquely positioned to support AAP’s recommendations. The organization’s licensed counselors provide comprehensive screenings and ongoing therapy to help young people address the root causes of stress, anxiety, and trauma.

How to Find Help

• Immediate Support: Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 assistance.
• Long-Term Support: For counseling and support services, visit lfcsmo.org or call 866-326-LFCS (5327).

Lutheran Family and Children Services (LFCS) is a statewide agency headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, with regional offices in Columbia, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Joplin, and Kansas City, as well as numerous satellite counseling sites. LFCS serves Missouri families from all walks of life in their greatest times of need. The nonprofit social services organization provides support in six critical areas to help children and families: adoption, behavioral health, parenting education, pregnancy support, foster care, and childcare at the Hilltop Child and Family Development Center. The programs in these areas empower individuals and families to develop healthy, supportive foundations for a lifetime. Services are open to anyone regardless of race, faith, national origin, or gender.

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“Screening is the first step, but it’s only effective if young people have access to care,” said Lindsay Jeffries, Director of Behavioral Health at LFCS.